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Discover the most popular places to stay in Hakuba, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Guest User: The facilities were what stood out at this hotel, from the complimentary red bean soup and crackers post-ski, to the beautiful public and private onsen with free ice pop and coffee milk, to the ping-pong table that our boys enjoyed in the evening. We booked the evening meals package with Ctrip which made it very convenient to have dinner in the hotel. The food was delicious although there was too much of it and it took 90mn to complete the course. I wish there was a casual Japanese restaurant onsite. The two bedroom junior suite gave a lot of extra space and privacy 👍🏻. What we found strange was that our room was ready by 1:30pm and our luggages were in but we weren’t allowed in until 3pm. Please make a conscious effort not to loose the hotel key card as they charge ¥3,000 for a lost keycard. That last note put a dim on our otherwise great stay.
14863-6 Hokujo, Kitaazumi District
From £ 96
Porfarng: Love here, good location, good service, clean and comfortable.
4715-4 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District
From £ 36
Stamp KJ: The accommodation offers a beautiful view and a very pleasant atmosphere. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and clearly newly renovated. Everything feels modern, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed. Overall, it was a great stay and I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a clean and beautiful place to relax.
10276-1 Hokujo
From £ 64
Guest User: The hotel has a great atmosphere. All the staff are lovely and very helpful. The hotel provides a free shuttle bus that took us to Happo Bus Terminal. The food is absolutely delicious, with breakfast served in a buffet style featuring Nagano specialties, and dinner presented as a Japanese-French set menu. The onsen is excellent, and the rooms are spacious and clean. We also love locker area for keeping ski stuff and there also provide dressing area near by.
4688 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District
From £ 100
Alyssa20: Unforgettable memory in Hakuba, hotel location is close to Happon one cable car (walkable). Staff is super superrrrrrr support and friendly. 100% recommend to stay.
5246 Hokujō
From £ 54
John Marc: Included dinner was great and it was a 4 course meal. Breakfast was also great with unlimited bread. At 4pm onwards, you can use the hot bath. Dinning room and living room have heaters so you won't worry about being cold. Room also has heater that you can set as you like. Fyi, it's the norm in Hakuba to charge extra for that heating, it was 500 yen a day.
2936-13 Hokujō, Kitaazumi District
From £ 46
Guest User: Nice experience. Just a dream house near nature. Self-check-in with clear guidance. Please enjoy the starry night too. A wonderful experience. A dream house close to nature. The self-check-in process is clear and easy to understand. Please also enjoy the beauty of the starry night.
4648-2 Hokujō
From £ 276
MeowVan: What an awesome experience! The hotel offered exemplary service before we even arrived. Due to special travel arrangements, we arrived late and the staff quick to arrange an in-room bento dinner for us before our arrival. When we got there, we were immediately blown away by the gorgeousness of the hotel. Despite its age, everything was very clean and polished. I can see that great care had been taken to upkeep the hotel and it’s premises, which are extraordinarily beautiful. We couldn’t resist taking pictures even after check-out, and it took us an hour to finally reluctantly leave. Words cannot actually do the place justice, you must visit there yourself. We were very impressed with how delicious the food was, and the attention to detail, including the placement of the food, the coordination of food color. My mouth is still watering as I recall how delicious it was. I had 10 helpings of their prime rib one day. Besides, I had a dietary restriction and the staff were really careful with that, to the extent of reminding me what dishes not to eat everyday at their breakfast and dinner buffet. In addition to excellent food and service, the hotel went out of its way to be very eco-friendly. For every day that we did not need our room to be tidied, we earned points, which can be traded in for ice cream or other goodies. Finally, the staff spoke perfect English. This is rare indeed, and it made everything so much easier and so much more enjoyable. Thanks for the experience!
4683-2 Hokujō
From £ 79
Guest User: Clean and spacious room. Also clean and convenient onsen on the ground floor. It’s 3-minute on foot to the bus station and surrounded by many cafe and restaurants although many are closed during off-peak season. Shoutout to Tim who provide a lot of helpful information about where to eat and what to do on a rainy day. We had a pleasant time during our stay.
5090-1, Hokujo
From £ 102
Eisvergel: The accommodation is clean and there is plenty of parking. However, it is suitable for those who drive on foot. There are no pajamas provided. The bath products, hair care products, and nourishing creams are so good that you might want to buy some to take home. There is a coin-operated washing machine with a wide selection of detergents. The digital door is difficult to open, so you have to wait for the right moment. Overall, it is worth it and a good choice for those who love peace and quiet.
大字神城23386−１
From £ 70
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Hakuba dishes and foodie spots.
This post compiles Japan travel destinations outside of Tokyo, including both one-day trips and overnight stays of 1-3 nights. Perfect for those who want to plan their own itinerary and choose according to their style and time. 📍 ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🚃 PART 1: ONE DAY TRIP from Tokyo Day trips – no need to change hotels. 🌊 1. KAMAKURA & ENOSHIMA | Coast and Old Town Visit the Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha), explore old temples, ride the Enoden train along the coast, and stop by Enoshima Island for ocean views. Ideal for those who want both culture and the sea in one day. · 🌿 2. KAWAGOE | Edo-style Old Town Stroll through the Kurazukuri (Old Warehouse) district and see Toki no Kane (The Bell Tower of Time). Visit Kashiya Yokocho, a sweets alley, and sample local delicacies. · 🏙️ 3. YOKOHAMA | Port City and Waterfront Views Stroll through Minato Mirai and enjoy the bay views. Visit the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and Chinatown. Perfect for cafe lovers, shoppers, and those who enjoy taking photos of the city. · ♨️ 4. HAKONE | Onsen and Scenic Routes Take the mountain railway, then the gondola to Owakudani, cruise on Lake Ashi, and visit Hakone Shrine. Suitable for those who want to try the Hakone Loop in one day, but it's best to leave early in the morning. · 🗻 5. KAWAGUCHIKO | Mount Fuji Views Enjoy the view of Mount Fuji at Oishi Park, take the Kawaguchiko Ropeway, and visit Chureito Pagoda. Suitable for those with limited time, but be mindful of weather conditions and travel time. ⛩️ 6. NIKKO | Shrines, Forests, and Waterfalls Visit Toshogu Shrine and Shinkyo Bridge. If you want to visit Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls in one trip, plan your time and bus arrangements carefully. Because the locations are far apart, · 💡 The best one-day trip depends on travel time and the number of places you choose to visit. Especially for Kawaguchiko, Hakone, and Nikko, always check the bus schedules beforehand. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🏔️ PART 2: Destinations where you should stay 1-3 nights Suitable for those who want to travel at a slower pace and fully appreciate the natural scenery. · ♨️ 1. HAKONE | 1-2 nights An onsen and nature town near Tokyo. 🚞 Highlights: Hakone Loop, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine. Suitable for those who enjoy onsen, scenic transport, and open-air museums. · 🗻 2. KAWAGUCHIKO | 1-2 nights A destination for lovers of Mount Fuji. 🌸 Highlights: Oishi Park, Chureito Pagoda, Kawaguchiko Ropeway, and the lakes surrounding Fuji. Overnight stays allow for more opportunities to enjoy views of Mount Fuji in the morning and evening. · ⛩️ 3. NIKKO | 1–2 nights Includes World Heritage sites, forests, and waterfalls. 🍁 Highlights: Toshogu Shrine, Shinkyo Bridge, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls. Suitable for those who enjoy history, autumn foliage, and mountain nature. · 🌿 4. KAMIKOCHI | 2–3 nights Beautiful valley in the Japanese Alps. 🏞️ Highlights: Taisho Pond, Tashiro Marsh, Kappa Bridge, and Myojin Pond. Suitable for those who enjoy hiking and nature. Check opening hours and bus schedules before traveling. · 🏔️ 5. HAKUBA | 2–3 nights A mountain town worth visiting in both green and snowy seasons. ❄️ Highlights: Hakuba Mountain Harbor, Iwatake, and Happo Pond when the trails are open. Suitable for those who enjoy mountain views and outdoor activities. And skiing in winter. · 🌊 6. IZU PENINSULA | 2–3 nights Another side of Japan that's not just mountains, but also coastlines and onsens. 📍 Highlights: Jogasaki Coast and Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, Mount Omuro, Shuzenji Onsen, and the beaches of Shimoda. Suitable for those who want to enjoy the sea, walk along cliffs, soak in onsens, and relax at a leisurely pace. Choose a travel zone that suits the number of nights. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ✈️ So where should you choose? · Love the sea and old towns → Kamakura & Enoshima · Want to travel near Tokyo without getting tired → Yokohama / Kawagoe · Love mountains and nature trails → Kamikochi · Want to see Mount Fuji → Kawaguchiko · Love onsens and scenic rides → Hakone · Love shrines, waterfalls, and forests → Nikko · Want the sea, cliffs, and onsens → Izu Peninsula · Want to explore the Alps and enjoy outdoor activities → Hakuba 📌 Planning tip: Consider the season and travel time. And with transfers, some places are suitable for one-day trips, while others offer a better overnight stay for a more worthwhile experience. Save this post as a starting list and choose destinations that match your own travel style! 🗾 #TravelJapan #JapanSelfGuidedTour #japan #TravelPlan
For those who know Hakuba as a ski town, try seeing it through an autumnal lens. When the forests begin to turn yellow, orange, and red, the atmosphere of the mountain village becomes warmer, perfect for a relaxing trip, enjoying nature, and taking unhurried photos. 📸🍂 🚠 A highlight of the trip is Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort. Take a gondola ride up to enjoy the mountain views, then visit HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR, an observation deck overlooking the Japanese Alps. On a clear day, it's perfect for sipping coffee, enjoying pastries, and letting time pass by the view. ☕🥐 🥾 Another place worth adding to your plan is Happo Pond. After the gondola and chairlift ride, you'll need to hike up to the pond. The path is a bit rough in some sections, so wear hiking shoes and allow plenty of time. If the weather is calm, you might see the mountain reflections on the water, making the climb even more meaningful. ✨ 🌾 Tsugaike Nature Park is ideal for hiking through the mountain wetlands. Wooden walkways wind through meadows and nature. Choose a distance that suits your fitness level and enjoy the views along the way. The colors in this area change with altitude and weather each year. 🌊 Take a break and visit Lake Aoki to enjoy the lake and its tranquil atmosphere before heading back to the city for a cafe or a stroll around Echoland in the evening. End the day with a warm meal and an onsen bath for a simple yet memorable day. ♨️🍜 🏨 Staying 5 nights in Hakuba on this trip helps reduce the fatigue of moving accommodations. I recommend setting up base in Happo and arranging transportation or taxis in advance for locations that are difficult to access, especially the lake. 🧥 Prepare windbreakers, raincoats, and layered clothing. Alternate days for mountain excursions according to the weather forecast. Check the operating days and cable car schedules for the descent before you travel, and your trip will be much more comfortable. 💙 #Hakuba #HakubaTravel #NaganoTravel #JapanTravel #JapaneseAutumnLeaves #HakubaIwatake #HappoPond #TsugaikeNaturePark #TripMoments
Explore nature, mountains, snow, scenic cafes, and the warm atmosphere of historic towns. ⛰️ Nagano for culture and Hakuba for the breathtaking mountain and snow highlights. Recommended period: December–February, perfect for snow sports and winter activities. 🌲 Nagano–Hakuba 5 Days 4 Nights 🇯🇵 A journey to experience Japan's nature and snow, starting in Nagano City. Pay your respects at Zenkoji Temple, wander through historic streets, and sample local cuisine. Then, head to Hakuba, a village nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Enjoy the snow, take in the views from a gondola, visit mountainside cafes, stroll through the cozy village, and relax in an onsen. Ideal for those who enjoy a slow-paced trip focused on nature, beautiful photography, and complete relaxation. ❄️🏔️
Autumn in Hakuba is a beautiful mix of colourful forests, mountain views and quiet countryside. Located in Nagano Prefecture, this mountain destination offers a different side of Japan beyond its busy cities. 🍂 My Experience What I love about Hakuba is the feeling of being surrounded by nature. Instead of crowded shopping streets, you get mountain scenery, fresh air and winding roads lined with trees changing colour. During autumn, the contrast between golden leaves and the rugged mountains makes the landscape especially beautiful. Some higher peaks may even have an early dusting of snow, creating a lovely contrast with the autumn colours below. I would recommend taking your time here rather than rushing between attractions. Whether you are walking through the countryside, stopping at a scenic viewpoint or simply enjoying the mountain views, Hakuba is a place where the journey itself feels relaxing. For anyone who enjoys photography and nature, autumn is a wonderful season to explore this part of Nagano. 📍 Travel Tips · Best time to visit: Generally late September to early November, with foliage timing varying by altitude and weather. · Enjoy the views: Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort offers panoramic views of the surrounding Japanese Alps when operating. · Visit Happo Pond: A popular hiking destination with beautiful mountain reflections on clear days. Check trail conditions before setting out. · Dress in layers: Mountain temperatures can be much cooler than in the nearby towns. · Plan transport ahead: Some attractions and buses operate seasonally, so check schedules before travelling. · Allow enough time: One or two days is ideal if you want to explore several scenic spots without rushing. 💡 My Tip: Hakuba's autumn colours don't peak everywhere at the same time. Higher mountain areas usually change earlier than the lower valleys, so checking local foliage updates can help you choose the best places to visit. #Hakuba #HakubaJapan #Nagano #JapanAutumn #AutumnLeaves #JapaneseAlps #JapanTravel #MountainViews #NatureTravel #Trip
Planning an autumn foliage trip to Japan? We’ve rounded up the top 5 regions—Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, and Kansai—complete with recommended airports, peak viewing times, and seasonal highlights. Save this guide for your next itinerary! · -- 🍂 1. HOKKAIDO Best for: Nature enthusiasts, beautiful cityscapes, and crisp, cool weather. 📍 Highlights: Hokkaido University, Odori Park, Maruyama Park ✈️ Airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) 🍁 Estimated Foliage Period: October – Early November 🌸 Other Seasons: Sakura (Spring), Flower Fields (Summer), Sapporo Snow Festival (Winter) · -- 🍁 2. TOHOKU Best for: Lovers of forests, streams, waterfalls, and expansive natural vistas. 📍 Highlights: Oirase Stream, Lake Towada ✈️ Airport: Aomori Airport (AOJ) or Sendai Airport (SDJ) · Or fly into Narita (NRT) / Haneda (HND) and take the Shinkansen (bullet train) north to Tohoku. 🍁 Estimated Foliage Period: Late October – Early November · -- 🏙️ 3. KANTO Best for: First-timers, Tokyo exploration, shopping, and easy train travel. 📍 Key Spots: Rikugien, Kamakura, Nikko, Kawaguchiko · Ueno Park · Yoyogi Park · Rikugien Garden · Hasedera Temple (Kamakura) ✈️ Airport: Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND) 🍁 Estimated Foliage Period: Late November – Mid-December 🌸 Other Seasons: Sakura (Spring), Hydrangeas (Rainy Season), Summer Shopping (Summer) · -- 🏔️ 4. CHUBU Best for: Trekking fans, high mountain peaks, crystal streams, and outdoor activities. 📍 Highlights: Kamikochi, Hakuba, Shirakawa-go ✈️ Airport: Chubu Centrair (NGO - Nagoya) or fly to Haneda/Kansai and continue by bus/train. 🍁 Estimated Foliage Period: Late September – October (High Altitudes) / November (City Areas) 🌸 Other Seasons: Nature hiking (Spring-Summer), Skiing in Hakuba (Winter) ⚠️ Good to Know: Kamikochi is closed during winter (Approx. mid-November – mid-April). Always check the specific opening dates for your travel year. · -- 🏯 5. KANSAI Best for: Those seeking historic towns, traditional temples, great food, and iconic landmarks in one trip. 📍 Highlights: Arashiyama, Kyoto Temples, Osaka Castle ✈️ Airport: Kansai International Airport (KIX) 🍁 Estimated Foliage Period: Mid – Late November 🌸 Other Seasons: Sakura around temples (Spring), Lush green bamboo groves (Summer), Peaceful historic atmosphere (Winter) · -- ✈️ Summary: Which Region Should You Choose? Beautiful cities, nature, and cool air | Hokkaido Forests, streams, and pure nature | Tohoku Shopping, train travel, and urban exploration | Kanto Mountains, hiking, and outdoor adventures | Chubu Temples, old towns, and Japanese cuisine | Kansai · —— 📌 3 Things to Check Before Booking: 1. Check the Latest Forecasts: Peak dates shift annually based on weather conditions. 2. Plan Your Connections: Regional airports aren't your only option; the Shinkansen is often more convenient. 3. Verify Opening Dates: Especially for nature trails and high-altitude mountain routes. Note: The foliage periods listed are approximate timeframes for planning 2026 trips and are not confirmed peak dates. Always verify with the latest foliage forecasts and transport schedules before departing.
𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐲𝐚𝐦𝐚 • 𝐇𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐛𝐚 • 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐢 3 Breathtaking Spots for Autumn Foliage in the Japan Alps The journey that makes us want to visit Japan all over again. When it comes to autumn in Japan, another incredibly beautiful zone is the Japan Alps. A natural paradise that feels like heaven on earth, a place you truly need to see with your own eyes at least once in your life. And here are 3 spots we highly recommend for those who want to experience the beauty of the Japan Alps during the autumn foliage season 🍂 🏔️ 𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐲𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐊𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞 A scenic route through the Northern Japan Alps filled with towering peaks, valleys, and epic natural landscapes. During autumn, the vibrant foliage contrasting with the mountain range is so beautiful you won't be able to look away. 🏔️ 𝐇𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐛𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐨 𝐏𝐨𝐧𝐝 A trekking trail leading up to a mountain pond with the Japan Alps as a stunning backdrop. On a clear day, you can see the reflection of the mountains on the water's surface beautifully. Along the way, you'll hike through forests and enjoy the colors of the changing leaves the entire way. 🏔️ 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐢 Another destination perfect for a slow stroll amidst nature, featuring crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and the Japan Alps right before your eyes. It’s so beautiful you’ll want to spend hours right here. If you have a chance to visit Japan in autumn, the Japan Alps foliage trail is definitely one for your bucket list!
Visiting Japan in winter? If you’re not going to Hokkaido, be sure to visit Toyama and Nagano! Enjoy magnificent snowy landscapes along the way❄ and experience top-notch skiing🏂 This lesser-known but highly praised route is a must-save📌 · 🚌Sample Itinerary🚌 Day 1: Toyama City → Amaharashi Coast → Himi Banya Street → Shogawa Gorge → Hakuba Day 2: Hakuba Ski Experience (multiple ski resorts, free choice) Day 3: Hakuba → Togakushi Shrine → Jigokudani Monkey Park → Toyama City · ⭐️Attraction Guide⭐️ 🔸Amaharashi Coast No one can help but be amazed by Amaharashi Coast! Looking out from the seaside, behind the elegant Maiden Rock, the snow-covered Tateyama Mountain Range appears like a fairyland floating on the sea, truly breathtaking! Recommended to visit at dawn or dusk when the sky colors are even more enchanting. . 🔸Himi Banya Street A food street not far from Amaharashi Coast, facing the sea, where you can easily enjoy fresh seafood directly delivered from Himi Fishing Port! Whether sushi, seafood rice bowls, or fried and grilled seafood, the fresh and sweet flavors are unforgettable. . 🔸Shogawa Gorge Such a beautiful icy snow world only appears in dreams! Take a boat ride through the tranquil gorge, flanked by snow-covered forests. Sitting in the warm cabin, admiring the picturesque scenery outside the window is the ultimate winter experience. . 🔸Nagano Hakuba Ski Experience🏂 Coming to Nagano in winter without skiing is a missed opportunity! This was the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and is famous for its high-quality powder snow. With 10 major ski resorts and diverse slopes, both beginners and experts can have a great time! You can also enjoy stunning views of the Hakuba Mountain Range from the ski resorts🏔 👉Recommended Ski Resorts: Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort / Happo-One Ski Resort . 🔸Togakushi Shrine Located deep in Mount Togakushi, Nagano Prefecture, the path to Okusha Shrine is lined with giant cedar trees over 400 years old. Covered in thick snow in winter, walking here feels like traveling through time, full of mystery and solemnity. . 🔸Jigokudani Monkey Park A place to observe monkeys bathing in natural open-air hot springs up close. In winter, seeing snow-covered monkeys relaxing in the warm springs is very amusing. · 🍱Food Recommendations🍱 Toyama Seafood: Red snow crab, yellowtail, and other winter delicacies at their peak! 👉Recommended Restaurant: Himi Fish Market Shokudo A seafood restaurant at Himi Fishing Port, taste the freshest first bite! . Nagano: Shinshu soba noodles / Fukumi chicken, etc. 👉Recommended Restaurant: Sumibi Kushiyaki Torikatsu Try Shinshu Fukumi chicken grilled over Binchotan charcoal in Nagano Prefecture. The chicken liver skewer is especially recommended, with great taste paired with local sake from the restaurant! · ♨️Hotel/Onsen Recommendations♨️ >> Hakuba Himekawa Onsen Hakuba Kogen Hotel After enjoying the snow scenery and skiing, what could be better than soaking in a hot spring to relax? From the open-air bath at the Kogen Hotel, you can also enjoy magnificent views of the Northern Alps! Amaharashi Coast Shogawa Gorge Boat Tour Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort Togakushi Shrine Jigokudani Monkey Park
𝐍𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐨, the prefecture famously known as Japan's natural paradise🇯🇵🍃 It's a place I think of every time summer in Japan rolls around. The lush green scenery here acts as true Nature Therapy, perfectly recharging the body and soul. If you visit just once, you'll find yourself wanting to come back again and again. Here are our top heart-healing spots in 𝐍𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐨 for the summer...~ 🏔️ 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐢, a majestic land of mountains and rivers. The scenery is as beautiful as a painting... yet it's completely real. You have to visit at least once! 🌿 𝐇𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐛𝐚, another breathtaking natural town in Nagano. It's gorgeous in almost every season, but especially during the green season... nature truly is the best healer. 🍃 𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐢-𝐣𝐮𝐤𝐮, a tiny ancient village nestled deep in a valley that still holds onto that classic Japanese Edo-period vibe. It's another incredibly charming spot surrounded by gorgeous nature. For anyone looking to get out, embrace nature, and fully recharge their batteries🔋 𝐍𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐨 is one prefecture you simply can't afford to miss💚🇯🇵
How many places are there that you’d want to visit over and over again? One of them is Hakuba Village in Nagano Prefecture, a true sanctuary for slow living. My first time in Hakuba was two years ago, late in the year during the autumn foliage season when it was raining heavily. This time, we chose to take a road trip along this route again—a journey of nearly five hours from Narita Airport. It’s a small village where you can gaze out at the Northern Japan Alps, and it offers trekking paths that are easy and comfortable even for beginners. Along the way, you can stroll, snap photos, and admire the tiny wildflowers blooming in the summer, all while enjoying the cool breeze and a clear sky. Our destination was Happo Pond, a small pond at the top of the mountain. You can park your car at the Happo Gondola station for 1,000 yen per vehicle. Round-trip tickets are 3,500 yen per person, allowing you to enjoy the view as you ascend. It's an easy walk with million-dollar views. Two years ago, the rain made the pond quite murky, though the sea of clouds was still stunning. Coming back this time, I finally saw the reflection of the Japan Alps in the pond. After a leisurely walk and lunch, we headed to the popular cafe, The City Bakery, at Iwatake Mountain Harbor. The afternoon vibe is so chill, with far fewer people than in the morning. We ended the day at Oide Park; the setting sun and the sound of the gently flowing water was beautiful in its own way. Next time, it’s got to be winter!
There are actually many ways to get to Hakuba, but we opted for the earliest JR Limited Express Azusa (reserved seating) from Shinjuku Station (around 8:00 AM), which took us straight to Hakuba Station at around 11:42 AM. 🗺️ Day 1: Scenic Ancient Bridge – World-Class Landmark – Village Stroll · 11:42 AM | Arrive at JR Hakuba Station · 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM | Oide Park (It's about a 30-minute walk, or you can take a taxi, which is convenient and affordable.) · 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Snow Peak LAND STATION HAKUBA & Starbucks · 4:00 PM onwards | Hotel check-in & casual stroll around the village 🗺️ Day 2: Trek to the Emerald Happo Pond – Visit the Mountaintop Cafe at Iwatake Mountain Resort · 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Trekking at Happo-One (Happo Pond) ◦ Getting there: Walk from your accommodation to the Happo-one Adam Gondola station. Take the gondola and chairlifts covering three sections (Happo Alpine Line) to the highest point. ◦ Highlights: An easy 1.5-kilometer trek (takes about 2.5 - 3 hours round trip). The trail is well-maintained with wooden boardwalks and rocky paths. The final destination is Happo Pond, a crystal-clear alpine lake that reflects the Japanese Alps like a giant mirror. · 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort ◦ Getting there: Head down from Happo-One to the Happo Bus Terminal and hop on the Happo-Iwatake Shuttle Bus (free during summer), taking it to the Iwatake Gondola station. ◦ Highlights: Ride the gondola to the summit of Mt. Iwatake and check out the highly popular Hakuba Mountain Harbor cafe. Enjoy freshly baked pastries from The City Bakery on the wooden observation deck, which offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views. Don't miss out on the Yoo Hoo! Swing—a giant swing that makes you feel like you're soaring over the Alps! · 4:00 PM | Head back to Hakuba Station ◦ Take the free shuttle bus from Iwatake Mountain Resort back to JR Hakuba Station to pick up your stored luggage. · 4:40 PM | Train back to Tokyo ◦ Hop on the evening JR Limited Express Azusa train (usually departs around 4:40 PM, though schedules vary by year) for a smooth and direct ride back to Shinjuku Station in Tokyo.
It takes two hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano. It is convenient and cheap. Skiing in China is not that cheap. Except that there is no food near the ski resort, everything else is good. The ski resort is good, but beginners should not come here.
常东🇨🇳The view from Mountain Harbor is amazing♡ The leaves are starting to change color and it's beautiful🍁 There's CITY BAKERY and soup stock so you can relax, and there are also activities like horse riding and yoga so you can enjoy the whole day! It's a little cold at the top of the mountain so it's a good idea to bring a jacket in addition to your usual clothes🫧
えむ| ひとり旅 韓国旅行 国内旅行Very nice to have a one stop shop to book everything you need for a day on the snow
_TI***f8Have been coming here for a few years, we always stay at Yama House in Echoland.Amazing place, was there in February 2026, the best time, we had 8 in our group, self contained luxury house walking distance to everything.It has 5 bedrooms so I guess it sleeps max10 people.Wow, we think it’s great value if you work out the cost per person for two families ect.
Orange countyTsugaike was so much better for us newbies compared to happo-one. so many more choices for beginner runs and so many more choices for food. Even have 4-20 pies!!!
YKBJ
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